Tips for Living in Antalya for Expats

Antalya is one of Turkey's most popular tourist attractions and it's also one of the finest places to live in Turkey (Turkiye). Antalya is a tourist resort that many people like and want to return to because of its unique blend of sunny days, sea, history, and culture. With beautiful sandy beaches and a gorgeous Mediterranean shoreline, this city is worth experiencing. Many people are considering relocating to Antalya. Antalya gets high marks as a tourist destination.

Some of the most popular vacation spots aren't usually the finest places to start a new life. However, Antalya is as suitable for year-round living as it is for vacations. For international property purchasers, the Antalya area is the second most popular in Turkey. There are foreigners from all over the world who live there. It gives Antalya a more multicultural atmosphere.

If you want an urban lifestyle, Antalya is the place to be. You'll love Antalya with its urban vibe. Antalya has several new shopping centers with all the newest brands and items and enormous supermarkets with products that are typically much cheaper than in the UK and other European locations.

What are the Advantages of Living in Antalya?

The advantages of living in Antalya are as follows:

• Cost of living: Antalya is 13% cheaper than Istanbul. Water, electricity, and other essentials are often cheaper in Antalya. Most real estate acquisitions are made with cash, with monthly withdrawals into a high-interest savings account to preserve net capital value. Also, the current currency rate from euros, pounds, and dollars to Turkish lira ensures that each cent is worth more.
• Large and diverse markets: Aside from the inexpensive cost of living, Antalya has a variety of marketplaces. Antalya has everything from clothes and technology to food and drinks. Antalya has various shopping malls, with reasonable prices. As every area has a local market, Antalya's multi-purpose retail malls can suit all of your shopping needs. If you want to live in Antalya, you can find everything at the large retail malls. Aside from regular groceries, Antalya also offers furnishing stores too.
• Antalya’s unique and refreshing climate: Antalya has a Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with moderate wet winters. From January through March, the city has clear and pleasant weather. In March, you may eat out, swim in the sea, and sunbathe. This optimal environment also encourages people to walk around the city, therefore living in Antalya promotes a healthy lifestyle.
• Transportation: Antalya's D-400 motorway connects all of the city's entertainment spots and attractions. There are lots of buses and you may rent or purchase a car. Transportation in Antalya is easy and convenient.
• Education: You can trust the quality of education in Antalya if you want to reside there with your kids, as enrollment in public schools is free and teaching is in Turkish. If you don't want to send your kids to public school, there are several excellent private schools in Antalya that you can select from. You do not have to worry about your child's education in Antalya. Your child will likely master Turkish in a few months. You can enroll your child in school two weeks after getting residency in Turkey.
• Lifestyle: People who have relocated to Antalya frequently cherish the shift in lifestyle the most. Antalya's multicultural atmosphere guarantees that nothing feels out of place. The weather encourages outdoor activities, hobbies, and, a seaside lifestyle. People get to spend their free time socializing and doing charitable work. Antalya is a perfect destination for individuals of various preferences. Each neighborhood in Antalya caters to a unique sort of real estate consumer. If you enjoy sports, luxurious accommodations, or historical sites, Antalya is the destination for you.

What are the Disadvantages of Living in Antalya?

There are not many disadvantages to living in Antalya, but some of them are:

• In the summer there is extreme heat and humidity.
• Also, because it is a tourist place, the central parts are too crowded.
• As in many cities in Turkey, life has become very expensive. The cost of living in Antalya has increased in every respect.

What are the Cons of Living in Antalya?

The cons of living in Antalya are as follows:

• The first thing you should consider before moving to Antalya is whether you will be able to obtain permanent and, of course, rewarding employment in this city.
• The fact is that tourism-related employment in Antalya is seasonal, which is why many foreigners who come to Antalya hesitate to do so.
• In any case, you will need a decent financial source to be able to afford the cost of living in Antalya. And you'll need to obtain a solid job before you can settle down and live in Antalya.

What are the Best Places to Live in Antalya?

You can find the best places to live in Antalya below.

1. Kas
2. Kemer
3. Alanya
4. Side

1. Kas

Kas is a tiny fishing town in the Turkish province of Antalya, and it has a population of about 2,000 people. Kas is surrounded by mountain ranges, some of which are said to depict images of human figures in a reclining position, such as the Yatan Adam mountain range, which means "sleeping man." Kas is a small sailing marina and agricultural area with a typical Mediterranean environment. It serves as both a sailing and agricultural center. Kas tourism offers to witness all of the crops, which range from lemons, oranges, and bananas to cut flowers, honey, almonds, and pine woods, among other things. Known for its Blue Cruises along the Turquoise Coast, Kas is a popular starting place for visitors.

2. Kemer

Kemer is a wonderful and busy tourist destination with fantastic day-out activities, stunning golden sandy beaches, and natural beauty where the sea, mountains, and pine trees mix in harmony. Kemer has 46 kilometers of beautiful shoreline. The resort's unpolluted sea and rich greenery make it a great place to relax and chill out during your Antalya vacation. In Kemer, you may find beautiful beaches, water sports activities, boat cruises, water parks, theme parks, outdoor and adventure sports like cycling, mountain biking, and hiking as well as superpsuperb pubs, lounges, clubs, and restaurants. Sightseeing, shopping, and daily excursions are also provided.

3. Alanya

The first thing to know about Alanya is that it is situated in front of the Taurus Mountains. The tourist resort is a typical southern town with a gorgeous landscape and old history, located on a peninsula of the Mediterranean Sea. The fascinating city center, which functioned as a major center for the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman empires, was also used as a stronghold. The Red Tower and the walled fortress, both erected during the Seljukian period, are well-known sights.

Alanya, the crossroads of numerous civilizations, is a renowned tourist destination with natural and historical attractions. The population was 87,080 in 1985, since then it has increased to almost 248,000. Many of the residents are foreigners from countries such as Germany, Russia, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. During the summer months, the population, including visitors, reaches over 1.1 million people. As you can see, Alanya is both a popular tourist attraction and a multicultural crossroads.

4. Side

The first thing to know about Side in Turkey is that it is a bright beach resort conveniently located near Antalya International Airport. Due to its family-friendly ambiance, beautiful sandy beaches, and ideal Mediterranean temperature, The idea is appropriate for year-round living and is a terrific vacation home location. Alexander the Great, the Greeks, and the Romans all occupied Side over its lengthy history, Side has a reputation as one of the region’s most important commercial centers.

These are globally recognized as among Asia Minor's most notable ruins. Thanks to its tranquil, sandy coastline and abundance of things to do, Side is highly popular with families. Property in Side, Turkey, is reasonably priced and located within walking distance of the beach, with cheap overall expenditures. Side is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer everyone who pays a visit.

How is Life in Antalya?

On the Turkish shore, Antalya is one of the nicest places to live. With lengthy hot summers and moderate winters, the climate is perfect for year-round living. You can choose from social amenities such as a fantastic selection of stores, restaurants, and nightlife, as well as easy access to transportation and medical services. Antalya is a touristic and modern city. Turkish people, particularly those from Turkey's west coast, like socializing and going out to restaurants, and pubs with live music.

Antalya is tolerant of all cultures and beliefs. The people in Antalya are very welcoming to foreigners. Antalya is the third most popular ex-pat destination in Turkey (after Istanbul and Ankara). In 2019, Antalya had 43,929 international residents (6.5 percent of the total number of those who moved to Turkey). Antalya's resort province now has 102,634 foreigners.

Why Should You Move to Antalya?

Having healthy and adequate recreation as well as tranquility contributes to a person's happiness. Antalya is a tourist city with many recreational facilities, and everyone in Antalya is happy with this. Perhaps this is why foreigners are growing interested in buying property in Antalya, Turkey's second most popular city for foreigners after Istanbul. As a result, Antalya has become a multicultural city. You don't have to reside in Antalya's core to use the city's services and recreational amenities. Instead, wherever you reside in Antalya, you will be properly serviced.

Antalya is a lovely city with enough to see and do. Antalya is sure to provide you with lifelong memories of a fantastic trip, whether you come for the lovely beaches, historical sights, or the magical waterfalls dotted throughout the countryside. Exploring the old center of the city is a fantastic way to get to know it. This fascinating city, full of history, will introduce you not only to modern-day Turkey but also to the history of civilizations that have passed through this part of the world throughout the centuries.

Here are some of the best attractions with plenty to do in Antalya:

• Tunek Tepe
• Lara Beach
• Old Marina
• Yivli Minaret
• Karaalioglu Park
• Kursunlu Waterfalls
• Antalya Aquarium
• Termessos
• Konyaalti Beach
• Antalya Archeological Museum
• Aspendos
• Duden Waterfalls
• Kaleici

Is Moving to Antalya Easy?

Yes, moving to Antalya is easy. One reason individuals find it easier to relocate is that the real estate industry is booming, with options ranging from low-cost one-bedroom flats to luxurious mansions with cutting-edge home technology. Antalya, being the center of southwest Turkey, makes it simple for people to get there. Antalya's state-of-the-art airport is open all year and serves planes from all over the world. In addition, the airport is well-linked to the rest of Turkey.

What are the Requirements for Moving to Antalya?

Financial planning should be maintained, especially if you own property in your home country. Know your earnings and spending, as well as unforeseen bills like household repairs. Make a spending plan and stick to it. If you get pay or pension in a foreign currency, keep an eye on exchange rates. If you don't have private coverage, apply for a Turkish resident card, and enroll in the government's SGK insurance. Make use of existing ex-pat networks, which may be a valuable source of information. Making Turkish friends gives an extra source of support with a unique perspective. Be open to new experiences, learning, and self-improvement. It will assist if you learn as much of the language as possible, try Turkish dishes, and attend cultural events like weddings.

What is the Easiest Way to Move to Antalya?

There are many ways to move to Antalya, either you get a job offer from one of the Antalya companies or you may invest in real estate in Antalya which is the easiest and best way. Property prices range from economical studio apartments to luxurious penthouses and villas with breathtaking views. Antalya is a place that is accessible to practically everyone due to its wide property price range. Antalya is one of the first choices for most foreigners who want to buy a home in Turkey. This gives them the chance to take advantage of a low cost of living, and an efficient transportation system that allows for simple movement within the city.

Turkey offers another alternative in the form of Residence Permits for long-term visitors. Tourists and residents holding a Residence Permit can travel across Turkey without wasting money or time on lengthy and inconvenient visa formalities. Last but not least, if you own a property in Turkey, you recently for Turkish citizenship and receive the same benefits and privileges as a Turkish citizen.

What is Daily Life in Antalya Like?

Daily life and costs are also far less expensive than in Istanbul, and about half the cost of living in London. Everything you might need in town is conveniently accessible and offers a wide range of options. As the local economy in Antalya is developing at a faster rate than that of the other cities, the number of job and investment opportunities is increasing as well. Antalya's ample living spaces, in particular, are gaining in popularity.

Institutions such as government offices, health centers, medical stores, parks, retail areas, and small local businesses are easy to reach. Newly built highways make it easier to go by car or bus. Transportation across the entire city is simple, easily accessible, and quick. The majority of individuals who seek property in Antalya do so to spend the summer or winter there, but the city is not merely a tourist destination. Antalya is also a culturally vibrant city that can be lived in for years.

Antalya offers more than just sun, sand, and sea. The old town, perched on a cliff above the port, has a lengthy history and will enchant you with its tiny, twisting alleys and historic homes. Throughout the Antalya region, there are several ancient cities.

How do Turks Behave Towards Foreigners in Antalya?

Turkish people are tolerant and helpful, and they have a natural curiosity for learning about new cultures. Antalya is a secular city welcoming foreigners of all languages, religions, and races. Antalya’s population is mostly Muslim. Knowing some Turkish is very useful. If you are invited to a Turkish family's house for coffee or tea, learning a few phrases is welcomed.

What is the Cost of Living in Antalya?

The cost of living in Antalya varies depending on the number of family members, whether the house is owned or rented, and the area in which the property is rented varies significantly from one location to the next, among other factors. However, according to the Turkish Statistics Authority's most recent report, the anticipated cost for a family of four (a husband, wife, and two children) is roughly $620.

Differences between the end of 2019 and the end of 2020 range are about a 10% increase, as we can say that the average monthly expenses for a family of four in Antalya are around $700, which includes the value of the apartment rent, as well as the costs of electricity, gas, water, and internet bills, as well as other costs for food and drink, education, health insurance, telecommunications, and other necessities of life.

Regardless of where most immigrants to Turkey choose to live, the reduced rates of water, electricity and other daily essentials attract them. The majority of real estate transactions are done with cash, which buyers often place into a high-interest savings account and remove monthly to preserve their net capital worth.

What are the Prices of Houses in Antalya?

Antalya's real estate market is quite active. The first reason is that real estate prices in this city are lower than those in other regions of the world, including Turkey, and real estate prices in Antalya. The property's outstanding quality of construction and aesthetics are the second reason. In Antalya, you may get a great deal on your ideal property with a great view of the Mediterranean.

Antalya is the second most popular international property-buying location in Turkey. Officials estimate that year-end sales for 2018 will be approximately 7,000 properties, with foreigners from various countries purchasing slightly over 27,000 residences since 2013. The diverse real estate portfolio is one reason for its attractiveness. It caters to customers of all budgets, from $30,000 to billionaire mansions, including off-plan, new and secondhand studios, apartments, and villas.

What is the Cost of Rental Apartments in Antalya?

The cost of renting an apartment in Antalya climbed by 23.29 percent over the previous year, reaching $1.6 per square meter; the average monthly rent in Antalya is $165.

What is the Cost of Food in Antalya?

Antalya is a popular tourist destination, which drives up restaurant pricing. Meat, as well as overseas dinners, are particularly costly, although eating Turkish food is considered economical. Below is a list of the basic food anyone would buy:

Restaurants	Price
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant	$3
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course	$13
McMeal at McDonald's (or Equivalent Combo Meal)	$3
Domestic Beer (0.5-liter draught)	$2
Imported Beer (0.33-liter bottle)	$2.8
Cappuccino (regular)	$1.5
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant	$1.5
Coke/Pepsi (0.33-liter bottle)	$0.74
Water (0.33-liter bottle)	$0.3

 

Markets	price
Milk (regular), (1 liter)	$0.6
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	$0.3
Rice (white), (1kg)	$1.2
Eggs (regular) (12)	$1.4
Local Cheese (1kg)	$4.8
Chicken Fillets (1kg)	$2.8
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)	$7.8
Apples (1kg)	$0.7
Banana (1kg)	$1.4
Oranges (1kg)	$0.8
Tomato (1kg)	$0.55
Potato (1kg)	$0.2
Onion (1kg)	$0.2
Lettuce (1 head)	$0.4
Water (1.5-liter bottle)	$0.2
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)	$4.8
Domestic Beer (0.5-liter bottle)	$1.7
Imported Beer (0.33-liter bottle)	$2.1
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro)	$2

 

How is Public Transport in Antalya?

Travelers may easily navigate Antalya. Getting to Antalya is easy. Buses and trams are reliable, as are taxis and minibusses. Four public transit choices may be combined to travel to all attractions and popular sites. The local bus is the major means of public transit in the city. Buses are one of the greatest methods to travel in Antalya. The bus lines travel via the city's major tourist sites. The minibus is a genuine and efficient method of transportation, and visitors prefer to use it, not only for convenience but also to learn about local travel. Aside from buses, the city offers a minibus for local travel. Payment is normally made as soon as you seat, and city rides are inexpensive.

Also, the tram, which only runs to a few sites, is important for tourists because it stops at several key sights. Tram is a cheap and practical option. Antalya's tramline has ten stops and is the quickest method to go about town. Licensed taxis in Antalya are yellow with side numbers. However, distances in Antalya's wide metropolis might result in hefty taxi charges. If you have a lot of luggage, you might prefer to use a cab.

How is Safety in Antalya?

Antalya, one of Turkey's most well-known beach resorts, is rated as one of the country's safest towns, according to the United Nations. More specifically, the city of Antalya has low crime rates, which contributes to a feeling of security and tranquility in the city. Solo travelers will appreciate the sense of security that the city shows as well.

Can You Work in Antalya?

Yes. Foreigners who live in Antalya must obtain a residency permit that is valid for at least six months to apply for a work permit. Foreign nationals who satisfy this criterion must submit their applications online. However, foreigners who visit Antalya with a tourist visa are not eligible to apply for a work permit. Such foreigners can submit their applications, together with the necessary documentation, to Turkish Consulates in their respective countries.